(BEIRUT, LEBANON) — The United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon Sigrid Kaag, noted recent citizens’ protests and rightful, public demands for basic services and the effective functioning of government.
Kaag underscored the importance of protecting the rights of citizens to peacefully express their wishes and demands.
Reports of violence and destruction of public property by some elements following yesterday’s demonstration are of “serious concern,” Kaag said.
The Special Coordinator expressed deep regret at the death of one demonstrator and the number of people injured and called on all concerned to exercise maximum restraint.
“Lebanon’s leaders must act in the national interest, especially at this critical time,” she said in remarks published by the Lebanese National News Agency.
“Lebanon cannot afford further stagnation or continued domestic political crisis, harming the economy, undermining the level of basic services and ultimately eroding the country’s stability and security.”
Kaag expressed “strong support” for Prime Minister Tammam Salam’s efforts to “promote consensus” but stressed the need for political accountability of all leaders.
She added that the world body backs “all efforts to ensure strong, effective state institutions to meet the needs of the Lebanese people.”